How to Choose a Bedside Table: A Complete Guide

The bedside table is more than just a decorative element; it is a functional and integral part of your bedroom design. Choosing the perfect bedside table requires balancing aesthetics with practicality, ensuring it complements your space while meeting your needs for storage and surface area. Here’s how to make the right choice for your bedroom.

1. Match the Style to Your Bedroom Design

When choosing a bedside table, consider your bedroom’s overall aesthetic. If your decor leans towards modern minimalism, opt for bedside tables with clean lines and sleek finishes. For a traditional or rustic feel, natural wood options can add warmth and texture to the space. For those who love eclectic or contemporary bedroom designs, materials like metal and glass can provide a striking contrast that still feels cohesive.

The key is to select a side table that not only complements your bed but also ties the entire room together. Ensure the bedside table fits seamlessly with the room’s colour scheme, with options like a pop of colour to create a focal point or neutral tones for a more subdued look. For Hamptons-style bedrooms, a white bedside table with natural textures might work perfectly.

2. Focus on Height and Proportion

The height of your bedside table should align with the top of your mattress for easy access to nighttime essentials. This ensures practicality and comfort when reaching for items like books, glasses, or a glass of water. A bedside table that’s too high or too low can feel awkward and disrupt the room’s harmony.

Interior designers often recommend keeping the height within a 5-10 cm range of your mattress top to ensure visual balance and functionality. In larger bedrooms, you might consider choosing tables with larger surface areas to accommodate lamps and decor without appearing sparse.

Smaller spaces require proportionate furniture, so consider compact side tables that provide functionality without overwhelming the room. Floating bedside tables or wall-mounted designs can be great solutions for particularly tight spaces, as they create an airy feel while offering storage.

3. Think About Storage Solutions

Your bedside table should offer storage that suits your lifestyle. If you prefer a clutter-free look, choose tables with drawers or cabinets to hide items out of sight. Open shelving units can work well for displaying decorative pieces or keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

For those with limited space, multi-functional tables with built-in storage can maximise utility without compromising on style. If you’re someone who likes to keep books close at hand, consider a bedside table with built-in book slots or lower shelves. These are particularly helpful in keeping the surface area clear while still ensuring nighttime essentials are easily accessible.

Interior designers often stress the importance of maintaining a balance between functionality and design. A table with both open and closed storage can provide the best of both worlds, allowing you to display decorative items while concealing clutter.

4. Evaluate the Surface Area

The top surface of your bedside table should accommodate your essentials while leaving room for decor. Common items like lamps, alarm clocks, or a book need adequate space. If you require more room, look for tables with a larger surface area or tiered designs that provide additional levels for organisation.

A common mistake is overcrowding the surface, which can make the space feel cluttered and chaotic. Keep it functional yet stylish by choosing decor that complements the overall design of your room. A sleek lamp with a slim profile can provide ample lighting without dominating the table’s surface.

5. Materials Matter

The material of your bedside table can significantly impact its durability and style. Natural wood options like oak or walnut offer timeless appeal and sturdiness, while metal and glass create a sleek, contemporary feel. Each material has its benefits, so consider your preferences and how they fit into your overall bedroom design.

For example, if your bedroom features soft, upholstered furnishings, a bedside table with a contrasting material, such as metal or glass, can add visual interest. On the other hand, a wooden bedside table can blend seamlessly in a rustic or Scandinavian-style bedroom.

Combining materials, like a wood base with a marble or glass top, can also enhance the design’s sophistication. Keep in mind the maintenance requirements for each material. Glass tops, for instance, may require frequent cleaning to remove smudges, while untreated natural wood might need periodic oiling to maintain its finish.

6. Prioritise Functionality

Functionality is key when choosing a bedside table. Think about your daily habits and what features you’ll need to make your life easier. For instance, tables with built-in charging ports or pull-out trays offer added convenience. If you enjoy reading in bed, a table with a stable surface for stacking books is essential.

For families with young children, consider tables with rounded edges to ensure safety. Similarly, if you’re in the habit of having a glass of water nearby, look for a bedside table with a spill-resistant surface or a coaster-friendly top.

7. Explore Options for Smaller Spaces

Not everyone has the luxury of a large bedroom. If you’re working with a compact space, choosing a bedside table requires more creativity:

• Wall-Mounted Options: Floating nightstands save floor space and create a modern, minimalist look.

• Slim Profiles: Narrow tables can fit into tight spaces while still providing surface area and storage.

• Dual-Purpose Furniture: Stools or small chests can double as bedside tables, adding versatility.

Using decorative mirrors or glass in smaller spaces can create the illusion of more space, while lighter colours help maintain an open and airy feel.

8. Customise to Your Needs

Customising your bedside table to suit your lifestyle ensures it serves your needs effectively. If you frequently change your bedroom’s decor, consider a versatile design that adapts easily. Modular options or tables with adjustable shelving can offer long-term flexibility.

Additionally, think about personal touches that make your bedside table uniquely yours. From monogrammed trays to handmade coasters, small details can elevate the overall aesthetic.

9. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches

The final step is personalising your bedside table to reflect your style. Decorate with a mix of functional and decorative items, such as a sleek lamp, a small vase of flowers, or a tray for jewellery and keys. Keep in mind the principle of less is more to avoid a cluttered appearance.

Adding a scented candle or an aromatherapy diffuser can enhance relaxation, making your bedside table a hub of comfort and functionality. Remember to regularly declutter and clean the surface to maintain its appeal.

A well-chosen bedside table is more than just a piece of furniture—it’s a reflection of your personal style and a practical addition to your daily routine. By considering factors such as style, height, materials, and functionality, you can ensure your bedside table enhances your bedroom’s design while meeting your needs.

Whether you’re furnishing a compact bedroom or a spacious master suite, the right bedside table will provide storage, display space, and a touch of elegance. Take the time to explore options, consider your specific needs, and invest in a piece that seamlessly integrates into your space. With careful selection, your bedside table will become an indispensable part of your bedroom’s charm and utility.